Demolition and Site Clearance Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Electrical hazards — Shut off and verify all electrical systems before work begins. Clearly mark or isolate live cables that cannot be disconnected. Use insulated tools and test equipment to ensure circuits are inactive before proceeding.
• Fire hazards — Remove flammable materials from work areas before starting demolition. Store fuels and chemicals in designated fireproof containers. Ensure fire extinguishers and trained fire marshals are readily available on-site.
• Fatigue and overexertion — Enforce regular breaks and rotate workers on physically demanding tasks. Provide proper nutrition and hydration support. Schedule shifts to avoid excessive hours and monitor for signs of worker fatigue.
• Falling materials — Set up exclusion zones to keep workers and bystanders away from drop zones. Use debris nets or scaffolding with protective barriers. Equip workers with certified hard hats and train them to store materials securely to minimize risk.
• Falling into excavations — Secure all excavation sites with barriers and warning signs. Use stable access points such as ladders or scaffolds. Inspect excavations daily for changes in stability, especially after weather changes or heavy machinery use.